The results of the first phase of the national serological survey of COVID-19 conducted by Ministry of Health (MoH) has revealed that an estimated 276,685 people or six per cent of Oman’s total population has been infected with the coronavirus. The highest prevalence of infection is in Muscat and Al Wusta, the lowest being in Musandam. 

‘The result (of the survey) shows that the overall prevalence of the disease at the national level is six per cent – 3.9 per cent in Omanis and 8.7 per cent among non-Omanis. Based on these results, the study at this stage indicates that the number of infections in Oman is  276,685 (both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients),’ the ministry stated. 

Muscat and Al Wusta governorates have the highest disease prevalence rate – 9.2 per cent each, followed by Buraimi (7.3 per cent), North Batinah (5.7 per cent), South Batinah (5.6 per cent), North Sharqiyah (3.6 per cent), Dakhliyah (3.2 per cent), Dhofar (2.6 per cent), South Sharqiyah (2.3 per cent), Dhahirah (1.9 per cent) and Musandam (0.9 per cent). 

‘The community response to COVID-19 in Oman reflects the commitment of individuals and institutions to the preventive measures which have had a profound impact on reducing the effects of the pandemic,’ MoH said.

Since its launch in July 2020, the national serological survey has become one of the main pillars supporting the national strategy to respond to the pandemic. 

‘These objectives are marked in assessing the prevalence of COVID-19 infection by age groups, monitoring of laboratory-diagnosed cases, assessing the level of infection in various governorates as well as the presence of infection in those who have not shown symptoms, and assessing the effects of the closure of the governorates on the epidemic.’

The ministry noted that it is important for the public to support the continuation of the survey in its next phase.